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Capitola survey finds strong demand for pickleball courts; Jade Street Park most requested site
Summary
A city survey found most respondents support dedicated outdoor pickleball courts and identified Jade Street Park as the most‑suggested location; staff recommended council consider options during the next budget and goal‑setting cycle.
Capitola — Staff told the City Council the results of a community survey on pickleball on Sept. 11, reporting broad interest in more playing opportunities and a preference for outdoor, dedicated courts.
Lede: The city’s April survey received 329 responses overall, 102 from Capitola residents, and showed a majority preference for dedicated outdoor pickleball courts. Jade Street Park was the most commonly suggested site in open‑ended responses.
Why it matters: Councilmembers asked for cost estimates and site analysis; staff told council this item is not currently budgeted and recommended any investment be considered during the next budget and goals process. In the survey presentation staff reported: “When asked about the barriers to pickleball participation, the number 1 barrier… was a lack of facilities.”
Public comment on low‑cost pilots: Several residents urged trial approaches that reuse existing tennis courts. As one resident described the approach and the economics: “If you take 1 tennis court, you can make 4 pickleball courts. And there are that doesn't take a lot of cost at all. It's just lines, on the court.” The council directed staff to consider pickleball options as part of the upcoming budget and goal‑setting cycle.
Ending: The council unanimously recommended that staff include pickleball options in the next budget/goal session and return with site and cost information.
